Project details
Enzymatic modification of textiles enables novel dying processes, alongside new dye-recycling possibilities. This project is a collaboration between Chemical Engineering, Materials and the School for Creative Arts and Design – the latter of whom have developed novel enzyme-based dye processes. This project forms a wider circular-economy approach to textile and dye recycling to ensure increased sustainability in the sector.
As part of our team, you will use the latest automation techniques with these enzymatic processes, establishing high-throughput screening approaches that can feed into machine-learning based optimisation of the dying process. You will also undertake key chemical analyses to better understand the mechanisms of dye incorporation and recycling, alongside enzyme functionality.
As the project is multidisciplinary, training will be provided as required. You will also have a range of opportunities to gain valuable transferrable skills (including through our doctoral college), network with international and industry partners, and be well-set up for a role in either industry, data science or academia at the end of the programme.
94% of Loughborough’s research impact is rated world-leading or internationally excellent. REF 2021
Supervisors
Primary supervisor: Prof Anna Croft
Secondary supervisor: Dr Chetna Prajapati
Entry requirements
Our entry requirements are listed using standard UK undergraduate degree classifications i.e. first-class honours, upper second-class honours and lower second-class honours. To learn the equivalent for your country, please choose it from the drop-down below.
Entry requirements for United Kingdom
Applicants should have at least, or expect to achieve, a 1st or good 2:1 MChem, MEng, MSci or equivalent in an appropriate scientific or aligned creative discipline including substantial components of either chemistry, physics, computing, biology or engineering, with a background in and passion for chemical sciences.
You will join a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive research team at Loughborough led by Prof Anna K Croft and co-supervised by Dr Chetna Prajapati and Dr Fiona Hatton, with opportunities for collaboration with other internationally leading groups in academia and industry, and engagement with the creative sector.
English language requirements
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees for 2025-26 entry
UK fee
To be confirmed Full-time degree per annum
International fee
£28,600 Full-time degree per annum
Fees for the 2025-26 academic year apply to projects starting in October 2025.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment and operating University facilities such as the library, IT equipment and other support services. University fees and charges can be paid in advance and there are several methods of payment, including online payments and payment by instalment. Fees are reviewed annually and are likely to increase to take into account inflationary pressures.
The successful candidate will also be expected to pay bench fees of £4,000.
How to apply
All applications should be made online. Under programme name, select ‘Chemical Engineering’. Please quote the advertised reference number: *AACME-24-012* in your application.
To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit the minimum supporting documents.
The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application. Whilst we do not expect a research proposal for this position, we will expect a personal statement.
Informal enquiries can be directed to Prof Anna Croft. Applications will be reviewed on a regular basis, with successful applicants expected to start as soon as possible. The post will be closed once filled.
